Engine braking

[Djana Tugan]

I love my new 2004 4R Sport V6 and I have found it is very convenient to brake with an engine changing gear from D to 3, 3->2, and 2->1.

How often do YOU use this type of braking ?
Is it for winter or long dowhills only ?

Thanx

 

[Hitman]

Personally, I've always thought that braking was better left to the brakes than the drivetrain.

I can understand leaving the tranny in a lower gear to avoid picking up speed going down a long hill, but why would you want to slow down by downshifting an automatic tranny?

 

[Sac State]

downshift

The drivetrain automatically downshifts to assist slowing during steep downhill grades. No manual intervention is required.

 

[Vortec4800]

I go down into 4th a lot (which I guess would be 3rd to you) to slow myself down, and occasionally into 3rd for even more braking. Coming from a manual transmission, this is almost second nature to me.

I wouldn't, however go to 2nd or especially 1st in an auto tranny, because the jolt can lock up your wheels when you don't expect it. It has happened to me a few times when I tried it, and I never go down that low anymore. Engine braking is great, but with an auto things get tricky.

 

[the_josh]

engine braking is for when you re towing (according to toyota)
so i only use it when i tow something

 

[khaug]

Ask yourself: Which is cheaper to repair - brakes or transmission?

I tow a 4,000# load extensively with our 'Runner. Even so, I reserve manual downshifts for instances when they're really needed, like descendin long, steep grades when towing. No point in wearing out the tranny before its time.

 

[DaveS]

I think when the manual talks about engine braking when towing it is referring to the recommendation that you tow in 4th (on the V8) ie you do not tow in overdrive - my understanding is that overdrive gives no engine braking wereas 4th is able to apply engine braking.

When going downhill mine does shift down to 4th and engine braking if I apply the brakes - the only time I use the shifter really is occasionally when going up a steep (still on road) hill

I agree with khaug - I would rather buy a new set of pads than repair the tranny.

 

[Djana Tugan]

Thanx everybody for you response !
You convinced me to be easy on the transmission. I thought I was doing something wrong, this was why I asked.

Thanx again !